One of the most robust and active aquarium fish available. Native to South Asia, they are a model organism in science due to their genetics. They are extremely active top-level swimmers that must be kept in schools to prevent stress and fin-nipping. They prefer cooler, oxygen-rich water with a current.
At a Glance
Tank Requirements
Water Parameters
Temperament & Compatibility
Available Varieties
Each variety inherits the species defaults above. Only differences are highlighted.
Standard (Short Finned)
The wild-type form (striped) or the 'Leopard' morph (spotted). Extremely fast swimmers that enjoy strong flow.
Differs in 1 trait from base species
Also known as: Leopard Danio, Gold Danio, Blue Danio, Frankei
Long Finned
Selectively bred for long, flowing fins. These are slightly less agile than the standard form and should not be kept with severe fin nippers. Flow should be moderate rather than high to prevent exhaustion.
Differs in 2 traits from base species
Also known as: Veiltail Danio
GloFish Danio
Genetically modified to fluoresce under blue/actinic light. Husbandry is identical to the Standard Zebra Danio.
Differs in 1 trait from base species
Also known as: Starfire Red, Electric Green, Sunburst Orange, Cosmic Blue, Galactic Purple
Zebra Danio Care Summary
The Zebra Danio, scientifically known as Danio rerio, belongs to the Cyprinids family group. Adults reach a maximum size of approximately 5 cm and have a fusiform body shape with a fast growth rate. Classified as mostly peaceful, this species primarily occupies the surface and mid-level zones of the aquarium and produces a low level of biological waste.
To thrive, the Zebra Danio requires a freshwater only aquarium with a minimum volume of 38 litres and a tank length of at least 60 cm. Water temperature should be maintained between 18°C and 26°C, with a pH range of 6.5–8 and a general hardness of 5–20 dGH. A high water flow is preferred. To replicate their natural habitat, the tank should include smooth gravel (sensitive barbels).
As a schooling species, Zebra Danio should be kept in groups of at least 6. Keepers should be aware that this species may nip the fins of slow-moving or long-finned tankmates and is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential. This species is available in 3 varieties: Standard (Short Finned), Long Finned, and GloFish Danio. Each may differ slightly in size, temperament, or care needs, so it is worth checking the specific requirements of the variety you plan to keep.
Similar Species
Red Rainbowfish
Glossolepis incisus
Native to Lake Sentani in Indonesia, this species is famous for the brilliant salmon-red coloration of mature males. They are large, active schooling fish that develop a distinct high-arched back as they age. Females are vastly different in appearance (olive-gold). They require hard, alkaline water and plenty of swimming space.
Guppy
Poecilia reticulata
One of the most iconic and widely kept aquarium fish. Renowned for their incredible colors, hardiness, and prolific breeding. As livebearers, they give birth to fully formed, free-swimming fry. Males constantly pursue females for mating; therefore, a ratio of at least 2 females per male is strongly recommended to disperse stress.
Japanese Ricefish (Medaka)
Oryzias latipes
A hardy, small, and colorful fish native to East Asia. Extremely popular in the outdoor pond hobby and nano aquariums. They are 'amphidromous' (tolerant of salinity changes) and can survive a wide range of temperatures, making them excellent tub/pond fish. They are surface dwellers that look best when viewed from above (top-down).
Dwarf Gourami
Trichogaster lalius
A peaceful to semi-aggressive labyrinth fish native to South Asia. Famous for their brilliant metallic blue and red stripes. While generally suitable for community tanks, males are territorial toward each other and similar-looking fish. They are sensitive to water quality and prone to Iridovirus if stressed. Requires access to the surface to breathe.
Boeseman's Rainbowfish
Melanotaenia boesemani
An incredibly popular and active schooling fish endemic to the Ajamaru Lakes in West Papua, Indonesia (currently listed as Endangered in the wild by the IUCN due to overfishing and habitat loss, though commercially captive-bred). Famous for the mature male's spectacular blue and orange split-coloration. They require long tanks for active swimming, excellent oxygenation, and warm, hard, alkaline water to thrive.
Platy
Xiphophorus maculatus
A quintessential community fish known for its durability and massive variety of colors. Native to Central America, Platies are livebearers, meaning they give birth to free-swimming fry. They are peaceful, active grazers that require hard, alkaline water to thrive. They are excellent for beginners but breed prolifically.